By Allison Bleakley
Ever since she was a kid, Anna Holcombe has always had a love for sports, especially soccer. For 12 years, Holcombe’s love for sports grew as she played softball, cross country, basketball, and tennis, but it was soccer that she couldn’t let go of. Today, Holcombe’s love for soccer continues to grow. On Dec. 9, 2017, Holcombe verbally committed to continue her soccer career as a Division I athlete at Indiana State University.
“I decided to continue to play in college because I love this game and I couldn’t picture my life without it,” she said.
Holcombe’s soccer career started at a young age. She began playing travel soccer at Strikers Soccer Club and eventually moved to TCSA Premier. Today, Holcombe plays at Campton United Soccer Club as a center midfielder. While at Campton, her team recently won the IWSL State Cup.
“Her energy and compassion to win combined with her amazing leadership skills bring forth a winning combination,” said teammate Kassie Hupach.
As a leader on the field, Holcombe makes in known to fans she’s on the field.
“Skillswise, Anna gives the team a lot,” said teammate Jenna Nichols. “She has super good foot skills that beat defenders almost every time. She also has a good shot so she scores a lot of goals! I remember when we were on JV together and she scored the 100th goal of the season. It was super cool to be apart of the excitement. After she scored, the team was unstoppable the rest of the game.”
For the player Holcombe has become, there was not a doubt that soccer was not in her future.
“She is dedicated and in my opinion will surprise you with what she is capable of on the field. She may seem small and not so intimidating but she knows how to work and move the ball around,” said teammate and cousin Shelby Key.
Holcombe’s hard work and dedication to the game caught the eye of many college coaches, including her future coach at Indiana State University.
“I visited the campus and really liked the environment and the majors offered. I also really liked the coaching staff and soccer program,” Holcombe said.
As Holcombe takes on year two on BHS varsity soccer team, nothing stands in her way. From the bleachers, watching Holcombe will be a treat as she weaves her way through the field catching the eyes of many and scores goals with her cannonball shot, the future is bright for number eight.